Method and appratus for vacuum sealing

ABSTRACT

A vacuum sealing apparatus has an inlet portion and an intermediate portion. The inlet portion is adapted to couple to, or insert into, a container to be vacuum sealed. The intermediate portion connects to a vacuum source, such as an in-house vacuum system. When the vacuum source is active, air is drawn in through the inlet portion. The vacuum sealing apparatus may also have a contamination filter disposed therein that substantially impedes contaminants from entering the vacuum source. In another configuration, the vacuum sealing apparatus is self-contained and includes a dedicated vacuum source.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of and claims priority benefit under 35U.S.C. § 120 from U.S. Patent Application No. 10/990,792, filed on Nov.17, 2004, which claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 60/520,351, filed on Nov. 17, 2003, andentitled “RECLOSABLE BAG VACUUM SYSTEM,” and U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/576,980, filed on Jun. 4, 2004, and entitled “VACUUMAPPARATUS FOR BUILT IN VACUUM SUCTION SYSTEMS TO EVACUATE AIR FROMRECLOSABLE FOOD STORAGE SYSTEM,” each of which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to vacuum sealing. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to using a vacuum source forremoving air from a container.

2. Description of the Related Art

Vacuum sealing of containers is a widely used technique for foodpreservation and storage. In general, food or other articles are placedwithin a specialized container from which air is evacuated through avacuum sealing system. Conventional vacuum sealing systems generallyinclude a vacuum source and a container sealing device, such as a bagwelder. These systems also generally include a one-way valve usable withthe container such that air may be removed from the container withoutthe air flowing back in.

Many conventional vacuum sealing systems are bulky and complex andrequire the purchase of specialized equipment and/or proprietarycontainers. For example, many vacuum sealing systems function only withspecialized containers, such as customized jars or single-use plasticbags. When using the single-use bags, the vacuum sealing system oftenuses a heating portion to weld the bag opening shut. After the bags areopened, they can no longer be reused for vacuum sealing and are usuallydiscarded. The repeated purchase of these customized containers can beexpensive and burdensome for the user. Thus, there is room forimprovement in vacuum sealing technology useful for those who desire anapparatus that has a more straightforward manner of use and that doesnot require the use of customized containers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention involves a device forfacilitating vacuum sealing using a central in-house vacuum system. Thedevice comprises an elongated air inlet nozzle having a tubular endconfigured to be inserted into a resealable container. The devicefurther comprises a hollow intermediate section having a first port forcommunicating with a central in-house vacuum system and a second portfor communicating with the nozzle. The device also includes an inlinecontamination filter located between the nozzle end and the first portof the intermediate section. The contamination filter generally permitsair flow through the nozzle and the intermediate section but greatlyreduces the likelihood of contaminants from entering the centralin-house vacuum system through the nozzle end.

Another aspect of the present invention involves a device for use invacuum sealing a resealable container. The device comprises a coverplate generally adapted to attach to a wall port of a central vacuumsystem. The device further comprises an intermediate portion having aninlet port and an outlet port that communicates with the cover plate.The device also comprises an elongated air inlet portion having atubular end, a connector end and a lumen. The connector end is moveablyattached to the intermediate portion, and the lumen communicates withthe inlet port. A contamination filter is located in at least one of thecover plate, the intermediate portion and the air inlet portion. Thedevice also comprises an actuator generally configured to activate thecentral vacuum system such that air is drawn in through the air inletportion when the tapered end of the inlet portion is moved in asubstantially downward direction.

Another aspect of the present invention involves an apparatus for use invacuum sealing a resealable container. The apparatus comprises a vacuumsource and an intermediate portion having a first port in communicationwith the vacuum source. The intermediate portion further comprises asecond port. The apparatus also comprises an elongated air inlet portionhaving a tapered end, a connector end and a lumen extending between thetapered end and the connector end. The connector end couples to theintermediate portion such that the lumen communicates with the secondport. The tapered end of the inlet portion is oriented in a downwarddirection such that the tapered end is vertically lower than theconnector end when the apparatus is in use. A contamination filter isdisposed in at least one of the intermediate portion and the air inletportion.

Another aspect of the present invention involves a device forfacilitating vacuum sealing using a central in-house vacuum system. Thedevice comprises an elongated air inlet portion having a tubular endconfigured to be inserted into a resealable container. The device alsoincludes an intermediate section having a first port adapted tocommunicate with the central in-house vacuum system and a second port incommunication with the inlet portion. A collection chamber is generallydisposed between the first port and the second port. The intermediateportion further comprises a mounting plate configured to attach to asubstantially planar surface.

Another aspect of the present invention involves a method for vacuumsealing an article in a flexible, resealable container. The methodincludes placing an article within a flexible, resealable containerhaving an opening. An elongated air inlet portion, which communicateswith a central in-house vacuum, is inserted into the opening. Theopening is then substantially sealed around the inlet portion. Themethod further includes triggering the central in-house vacuum system towithdraw air from the flexible, resealable container through the inletportion. The inlet portion is then removed from the flexible, resealablecontainer. The flexible, resealable container is then substantiallysealed with the article contained therein.

Another aspect of the present invention involves an apparatus for use invacuum sealing a resealable container. The apparatus comprises means foraccessing the interior of a flexible, resealable container. Theapparatus further includes means for communicating with a wall port of acentral vacuum system and means for coupling the accessing means to thecommunicating means such that air is drawn through the accessing meanswhen the central vacuum system is active. The apparatus also includesmeans for substantially impeding contaminants from entering the centralvacuum system through the accessing means and the communicating means.The substantially impeding means is disposed in at least one of theaccessing means, the communicating means and the coupling means. Theapparatus also comprises means for activating the central vacuum systemin response to a particular movement of the accessing means.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention will now be described with reference to the drawings ofseveral preferred embodiments, which embodiments are intended toillustrate and not to limit the invention. The drawings comprise 14figures.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vacuum sealing apparatus arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present invention. The vacuum sealing apparatus is shown with aninlet portion in a generally vertical position.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the vacuum sealing apparatus of FIG. 1with the inlet portion in a generally horizontal position.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the inlet portion and a chamber body ofthe intermediate portion of the vacuum sealing apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the vacuum sealing apparatus of FIG. 1having an access cap removed from the chamber body.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the inlet portion and the chamber body of thevacuum sealing apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of the inlet portion and thechamber body of the vacuum sealing apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 7 and 8 are perspective and exploded views respectively of a coverplate of the vacuum sealing apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of the vacuum sealing apparatus ofFIG. 1 having the cover plate in a location below the intermediateportion.

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the inlet portion and thechamber body of the vacuum sealing apparatus of FIG. 1, wherein a bottomportion of the chamber body is removed to show an actuator.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are perspective views of another vacuum sealingapparatus arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,aspects and advantages of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of yet another vacuum sealing apparatusarranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the vacuum sealing apparatus of FIG. 12wherein a connector portion is dissembled to further illustrate afilter.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of yet another vacuum sealing apparatusarranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With reference now to FIGS. 1-10, a vacuum sealing apparatus 30 isshown. The illustrated vacuum sealing apparatus 30 is specificallyadapted for use in removing air from containers. In a preferredembodiment, the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 is configured to remove airfrom resealable containers. In a more preferred embodiment, the vacuumsealing apparatus 30 is configured to remove air from flexible,resealable containers, such as for example, but without limitation,ZIPLOC® or GLAD® zipper-sealed bags. In other arrangements, the vacuumsealing apparatus 30 is configurable to remove air from a wide varietyof containers, such as bags, jars, canisters and the like.

The vacuum sealing apparatus 30 is advantageously adapted to communicatewith a vacuum source. The vacuum source provides enough suction to drawair from a container and through at least a portion of the vacuumsealing apparatus 30. Preferably, the vacuum source is independent of,or external to, the vacuum sealing apparatus 30. For example, the vacuumsource may comprise a central in-house vacuum system, a vacuum pump, afan, or the like. For exemplary purposes, the vacuum sealing apparatus30 will be described first with reference to use with a central in-housevacuum system. In some arrangements, a dedicated vacuum source can beconnected to the vacuum sealing apparatus 30.

With reference to FIG. 1, the illustrated vacuum sealing apparatus 30generally comprises an inlet portion 32 and an intermediate portion 34.The inlet portion 32 is advantageously adapted to be inserted into aresealable container 33. As illustrated, the inlet portion 32 isgenerally of a tubular structure having a lumen that extends through theinlet portion 32. The inlet portion 32 couples to the intermediateportion 34 such that the lumen of the inlet portion 32 communicates witha port of the intermediate portion 34.

As used herein, the term “tubular” includes its ordinary broad meaning,which includes a hollow structure, of any shape or cross-section, havingat least two openings that allow for the passage of a liquid, solidand/or gas. For example, FIG. 1 depicts the tubular inlet portion 32 ashaving an elongated, substantially cylindrical structure. In otherarrangements, the tubular inlet portion 32 can take the form of a ductand/or can include a polygonal cross-section, an ellipticalcross-section, combinations of the same or the like.

The illustrated intermediate portion 34 further comprises a chamber body36, an elongated connector 38 and a cover plate 40. The intermediateportion 34 advantageously comprises at least one common passageway thatextends through each of the chamber body 36, the elongated connector 38and the cover plate 40, such that air may flow therethrough. In apreferred configuration, the chamber body 36 comprises an inlet portthat communicates with the lumen of the inlet portion 32.

Furthermore, the cover plate 40 preferably comprises an outlet port andcouples to a wall port of an in-house vacuum system. In such aconfiguration, the in-house vacuum system can be used to draw air inthrough the inlet portion 32 and the intermediate portion 34 in order tovacuum seal a container.

The intermediate portion 34 of the illustrated vacuum sealing apparatus30 is configured to mount to a substantially planar surface. Forexample, the intermediate portion 34 is mountable on a substantiallyhorizontal surface, such as underneath a cabinet, a counter, cupboard,or other like surface. In other arrangements, the intermediate portion34 can be mounted to a substantially vertical surface, such as abacksplash or a wall. Furthermore, the wall plate 40 is configured tomount to a wall surface having a wall port of an in-house vacuum system.In other configurations, the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 is portable orcan stand in an upright position.

In one arrangement, the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 further comprises afilter that substantially reduces or eliminates contaminants, such asdust and debris, from the in-house vacuum system from traveling thoughthe vacuum sealing apparatus 30 and out the inlet portion 32 (e.g., intothe container being vacuum sealed). Furthermore, the filter generallyimpedes food, liquid, or other materials, which are stored in acontainer to be vacuum sealed, from entering the in-house vacuum systemthrough the vacuum sealing apparatus 30. Preferably, the filtercomprises an inline contamination filter that allows for the flow of airthrough the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 and that substantially reducesthe flow of liquid and/or other particles out of the vacuum sealingapparatus 30. As will be appreciated, one or more filters can bedisposed in one more locations within the inlet portion 32 and/or theintermediate portion 34.

FIG. 1 further depicts the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 having the inletportion 32 in a substantially vertical, or a deployed, position. Inparticular, the lumen of the inlet portion 32 is directed in asubstantially downward direction. Such an orientation of the inletportion 32 allows a user to keep the opening of the container to bevacuum sealed in a substantially upward orientation, which reduces thelikelihood of materials inside the container falling out during thevacuum sealing process.

FIG. 2 illustrates the inlet portion 32 in an elevated or substantiallyhorizontal position. In one arrangement, the inlet portion 32 isoriented in such a position when the in-house vacuum system is in an offor non-operating state such that air is not drawn in through the vacuumsealing apparatus 30. Such a position also advantageously decreases theamount of space occupied by the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 when it isnot in use.

In one configuration, movement of the inlet portion 32 from thesubstantially horizontal position (as shown in FIG. 2) to thesubstantially vertical position (as shown in FIG. 1) activates thein-house vacuum system. As a result, air is drawn in through the inletportion 32 so as to permit vacuum sealing. Likewise, movement of theinlet portion 32 back to the horizontal position deactivates thein-house vacuum system. In another configuration, to activate thein-house vacuum system, the user pulls the inlet portion 32 a certainamount while the inlet portion 32 is in the substantially verticalposition.

With reference to FIG. 3, the illustrated inlet portion 32 furthercomprises a nozzle having a tapered end 42, an elongated body 44 and aconnector 46. The tapered end 42 facilitates the insertion of the inletportion 32 in container openings. In addition, the tapered end 42 allowsfor the user to gradually remove the inlet portion 32 from the containerwhile preventing a substantial amount of air from flowing into thecontainer.

The illustrated elongated body 44 preferably comprises a tubularstructure. In one configuration, the elongated body 44 comprises a rigidmaterial, such as, for example, a plastic or a light-weight metal. Inother configurations, the elongated body 24 comprises a flexiblematerial, such as a rubber or the like. Such flexibility allows a usermore freedom in orienting the container to be vacuum sealed. Theelongated body 44 also provides for varying depths of insertion of theinlet portion 32 into containers of various sizes and/or shapes.

Furthermore, the illustrated inlet portion 32 comprises a plurality ofinlet holes 45 extending through the elongated body 44 from an outsidesurface of the body 44 to a lumen extending through the body 44. Theseinlet holes 45 provide for multiple locations in which air can be drawnin through the inlet portion 32. In other configurations, the inletportion 32 may not include the inlet holes 45, or the inlet holes 45 maybe selectively closeable by the user.

The connector 46 couples the inlet portion 32 to the intermediateportion 34. In one configuration, the connector 46 allows for movementof the inlet portion 32 with respect to the intermediate portion 34.Preferably, the connector 46 is rotatable so as to allow the inletportion 32 to move with at least one degree of freedom, such as betweena substantially vertical position and a substantially horizontalposition, as described above. For example, the connector 46 may comprisea hinge or other pivoting mechanism. In other arrangements, theconnector 46 comprises a multi-axial configuration or a polycentricconfiguration allowing for multiple degrees of movement of the inletportion 32.

In yet other arrangements, the inlet portion 32 is in a fixed positionwith respect to the intermediate portion 34. In such an arrangement, thetapered end 42 of the inlet portion 32 preferably points in asubstantially downward direction. As described above, this downwardorientation helps reduce the likelihood of materials from falling out ofthe containers to be vacuum sealed and/or reduce the flow ofcontaminants into the inlet portion 32.

Although the inlet portion 32 is described above with respect toparticular arrangements, a wide variety of other configurations can beused. For example, the intermediate portion 34 may further comprise aspring or other similar retraction device that causes the inlet portion32 to automatically retract from a substantially vertical position to asubstantially horizontal position when the inlet portion 32 is not inuse. In other arrangements, the inlet portion 32 may comprise atelescoping nozzle that allows for extension and retraction of the inletportion 32, or the inlet portion 32 can be removably coupled to theintermediate portion 34, such as by a snap-on feature, for example. Thisremovability facilitates cleaning and/or replacement of the inletportion 32. For example, the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 may comprisemultiple interchangeable inlet portions 32 that are adapted to be usedin different vacuum sealing environments, such as with differentcontainers.

With continued reference to FIG. 3, the illustrated chamber body 36 ofthe intermediate portion 34 further comprises a mounting plate 48 usableto secure the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 to a substantially planarsurface, as described previously. For example, the mounting plate 48 mayuse adhesives, screws, bolts, hooks, or other like securing devicesand/or materials for attaching the mounting plate 48 to a surface. Theillustrated mounting plate comprises holes 49 for this purpose.

The chamber body 36 further comprises a main housing 50 and an accesscap 52. In one configuration, the main housing 50 forms or encompasses acollection chamber, such as a catch basin or a spillage chamber, usableto collect excess materials that are drawn in through the inlet portion32. Removal of the access cap 52 facilitates user access to thecollection chamber for cleaning and other maintenance. FIG. 4 furtherillustrates the chamber body 36 with the access cap 52 removed from anopening 59.

With reference to FIG. 5, the inlet portion 32 is again depicted in asubstantially vertical, or deployed, orientation. In particular, thetapered end 42 of the inlet portion 32 is positioned vertically lowerthan the connector 46, and the elongated body 44 is in a substantiallyvertical orientation. FIG. 5 further illustrates the inlet portion 32coupled to the intermediate portion 34 through the rotatable connector46. In addition, FIG. 5 depicts the plurality of inlet holes 45extending through the elongated body 44 of the air inlet portion 32.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the inlet portion 32and the chamber body 36 of the intermediate portion 34. The illustratedinlet portion 32 further comprises a lumen 54 that extends the length ofthe elongated body 44. The illustrated inlet portion 32 couples to thechamber body 36 such that the lumen 54 communicates with an inlet port56 of the chamber body 36.

As described above, the chamber body 36 further comprises a collectionchamber 58 that provides a location in which contaminants, such asliquids or particles, may accumulate when passing into the chamber body36. As illustrated, the inlet port 56 is advantageously located at anelevated position with respect to a bottom portion of the collectionchamber 58. Such a location helps prevent or impede food or liquid thatis inadvertently drawn in through the inlet portion 32 and the inletport 56, and that may accumulate in the collection chamber 58, fromreturning into the inlet port 56 or substantially blocking the port 56.

As illustrated, the chamber body 36 also comprises an exhaust port 60that allows for air drawn in through the inlet port 56 to exit thechamber body 36. The exhaust port 60 preferably communicates with theelongated connector 38. Furthermore, the exhaust port 60 isadvantageously located at an elevated position with respect to a bottomportion of the collection chamber 58. For example, the illustratedexhaust port 60 is located on the side of the collection chamber 58.Such positioning helps prevent or impede contaminants that mayaccumulate in the collection chamber 58 from being drawn into theelongated connector 38 and, in turn, into the vacuum source. This alsohelps remove larger particles and/or drops of liquid from air flowingthrough the collection chamber 58.

In another arrangement, the inlet port 56 and/or the exhaust port 60 canbe located at the top of the collection chamber such that the opening ofthe port is oriented in a generally downward direction. In yet anotherarrangement, the exhaust port 60 can include baffles, screens, or thelike usable to substantially impede particles and/or liquid fromentering the exhaust port 60.

With continued reference to FIG. 6, the chamber body 36 furthercomprises the opening 59 that is closed by the access cap 52. Asdiscussed previously, the access cap 52 is preferably at least partiallyremovable to facilitate user access to the chamber body 36. Inparticular, removing the access cap 52 allows the user to removeaccumulated contaminants from the collection chamber 58. The access capcan be connected to the chamber body through a threaded or frictioncoupling, a snap fit, or the like. In another configuration, the accesscap 52 is located on other portions of the chamber body 36. For example,the access cap 52 can be located at the bottom of the collection chamber58. In yet other configurations, the chamber body 36 comprises anotherapparatus or device, such as a slideable window, that facilitatescleaning of the chamber body 36.

Although described with reference to particular arrangements, a widevariety of alternative configurations are useable with the vacuumsealing apparatus 30. For example, the chamber body 36 may furthercomprise a filter, as described above, located downstream from thecollection chamber 58. For example, the filter can be disposed withinthe exhaust port 60 or the connector 38. In yet other configurations,the chamber body 36 may comprise a one-way stopper configured tosubstantially impede the movement of materials between the inlet portion32 and the chamber body 36. For example, the one-way stopper can belocated within or near the inlet port 56 and may be used in combinationwith the above-described filter.

With reference now to FIGS. 7 and 8, the illustrated cover plate 40 isin communication with a central vacuum system 69 and comprises anadapter 62 for coupling the elongated connector 38 to a mounting portion64. The illustrated mounting portion 64 comprises a disk-shaped surfacehaving a flat side and an opposing, substantially convex side. The flatside of the mounting portion 64 facilitates attachment of the mountingportion 64 to a variety of planar surfaces, such as a wall. Inparticular, the mounting portion 64 is preferably configured to attachto a portion of a wall having an in-house vacuum system port. In onearrangement, the cover plate 40 can be substituted for a conventionalin-house vacuum system cover plate or outlet cover. In such anarrangement, the cover plate 40 advantageously couples to existing wallport contacts or switches that control the operation of the in-housevacuum system. As a result, the operation of the vacuum sealingapparatus 30 is used to activate the in-house vacuum system during thevacuum sealing process.

The illustrated cover plate 40 further comprises a removable access cap66. With reference to FIG. 8, removal of the access cap 66 facilitatesaccess to a filter 68 and to an outlet port 70. In one embodiment, thefilter 68 comprises an inline contamination filter that prevents orimpedes contaminants, such as dust or debris, from entering the vacuumsealing apparatus 30 through the outlet port 70, which communicates withthe in-house vacuum system. The filter 68 preferably allows for the flowof air but prevents or impedes the flow of liquids or particles throughthe outlet port 70. The filter 68 is also preferably removable such thata user can periodically examine, clean and/or replace the filter 68 toenable better performance of the vacuum sealing apparatus 30.

Although the filter 68 is disclosed with reference to a particularconfiguration, a wide variety of alternative filters may be used withthe vacuum sealing apparatus 30. For example, the filter 68 may comprisea hydrophilic material that substantially impedes or prevents thepassage of water. In another configuration, the filter 68 may compriseplurality of narrow passageways arranged in a labyrinth-typeconfiguration. These passageways may allow for the passage of air butmay impede particles or liquids from passing therethrough. In yet otherconfigurations, a similar filter can be disposed within the inletportion 32, the chamber body 36 or the elongated connector 38 insteadof, or in combination with, the filter 68 in the cover plate 40.

With reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the vacuum apparatus 30 is shownhaving the cover plate 40 located in a position below the chamber body36. FIG. 9A depicts the inlet portion 32 in a retracted position, andFIG. 9B depicts the inlet portion 32 in a deployed position. Thus,differing positions between the cover plate 40 and the chamber body 36can be used.

FIG. 10 illustrates a bottom view of the vacuum apparatus 30 with abottom portion of the chamber body 36 removed to show components withinthe chamber body 36. In particular, FIG. 10 depicts an actuator 71usable to control the operation of the vacuum source, such as thein-house vacuum system. As shown, the actuator 71 is an electricalswitch and further comprises a contact arm 72 and a contact pad 74. Theactuator 71 is further coupled to the inlet portion 32 such thatrotation of the elongated body 44 about the connector 46 causes acorresponding movement of the actuator 71. In particular, when theelongated body 44 of the inlet portion 32 is rotated to a substantiallyvertical position, a protrusion 76 comes in physical contact with thecontact arm 72 and causes the contact arm 72 to touch the contact plate74. This contact between the contact arm 72 and the contact plate 74creates an electrical connection that causes the vacuum source, such asan in-house vacuum system, to turn on. Likewise, when the elongated body44 is rotated back to a substantially horizontal position, as is shownin FIG. 10, the contact arm 72 separates from the contact plate 74 andbreaks the electrical connection, which causes the vacuum source tocease operating.

In yet other configurations, the actuator 71 may comprise a manualswitch, one or more sensors, or the like. The actuator 71 may also beconfigured to couple to existing contacts or switches of the in-housevacuum system, such as in a conventional wall port, or the actuator 71may communicate through wireless channels, such as radio frequency (RF)communication, with the vacuum source.

Furthermore, the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 may comprise a variablecontrol that allows the user to manage how much air is being drawnthrough the vacuum sealing apparatus 30. For example, the variablecontrol may adjust the size of one of more passageways or ports of thevacuum sealing apparatus 30, which may include, for example, the lumen54, the inlet port 56, the exhaust port 60 and/or the outlet port 70. Inone embodiment, the level of vacuum varies with the position of theinlet portion 32 relative to the chamber body 36. The variability can beachieved mechanically (e.g., flow constriction) or electrically (e.g.,regulating the power of the vacuum source).

For exemplary purposes, a preferred method of use of the vacuum sealingapparatus 30 with a resealable container will now be described. The userinserts the tapered end 42 of inlet portion 32 in a container to bevacuum sealed. For example, the inlet portion 32 can be inserted in theopening of a zipper-type, resealable bag that contains food items. Thedepth of insertion may depend on the size of the bag and the propertiesof its contents. Once the inlet portion 32 is inserted into the bagopening, the user forms a substantial seal around the inlet portion 32by closing the bag opening around the inlet portion 32.

Once the bag is substantially sealed around the inlet portion 32, theuser then pulls the inlet portion 32 forward or downward to activate thein-house vacuum system. In some configurations, the inlet portion 32 canbe moved into a substantially downward direction before placing thetapered end 42 into the bag. As the in-house vacuum system evacuates airfrom the bag, the user slowly slides the bag down the inlet portion 32while keeping enough downward pressure on the inlet portion 32 to keepthe in-house vacuum system activated. The tapered shape of the inletportion 32 allows the user to gradually seal the opening of the bagwhile moving the bag down the inlet portion 32.

Once the air is substantially removed from the bag, the user releasesthe downward pressure on the inlet portion 32, which deactivates thein-house vacuum system. The user preferably slides the bag completelyoff the inlet portion 32 and seals the remaining bag opening to preventunwanted air from returning into the bag. Once the bag is removed fromthe inlet portion 32, the inlet portion is returned into thesubstantially horizontal position. In configurations wherein the inletportion 32 comprises an automatic retraction device, such a spring, theinlet portion 32 automatically returns to the horizontal position whenthe user no longer exerts pressure on the inlet portion 32.

As can be seen, the above-described method advantageously provides for asubstantial “hands free” vacuum sealing process. That is, the user mayvacuum seal a container without substantial use of his or her hands tohold and/or manipulate the vacuum sealing apparatus 30. Instead, theuser is able to hold and secure the container throughout the vacuumsealing process.

Furthermore, the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 does not require the use ofspecialized bags or containers and allows for repeated vacuum sealing ofresealable containers, such as zipper-type bags. This is because thevacuum sealing apparatus 30 need not puncture or heat seal the bagduring the vacuum sealing process.

With reference now to FIGS. 11A and 11B, another vacuum sealingapparatus 130 is shown that is arranged and configured in accordancewith certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention.To simplify the description, components will not be redescribed indetail if they were described above. Rather, the components in theembodiment of FIGS. 11A and 11B will be given a reference numeral thatretains the same last two digits as the reference numeral used in theembodiment of FIGS. 1-10, and the last two digits will be preceded witha numeral “1.” Thus, the vacuum sealing apparatus 130 generallycorresponds to the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 with certain differencesthat will be illuminated in the following discussion.

The vacuum sealing apparatus 130 advantageously is self-contained anddoes not require an external vacuum source, such as an in-house vacuumsystem. With particular reference to FIG. 11A, the vacuum sealingapparatus 130 comprises an inlet portion 132 and an intermediate portion134, which further comprises a chamber body 136 and a connector 138. Thechamber body 136 further includes holes 149 for securing the vacuumsealing apparatus to a surface such as, for example, a wall, a cabinet,a cupboard, a shelf or the like.

In contrast to the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 of FIGS. 1-10, the vacuumsealing apparatus 130 comprises a vacuum source 180. For example, thevacuum source may comprise a vacuum pump, a fan, or other apparatus ordevice usable to create air flow. The vacuum source 180 preferably drawsair in through the inlet portion 132 and out exhaust vents 182. In oneconfiguration, the vacuum source 180 is powered by an AC power source,such as through a conventional electrical outlet. In anotherconfiguration, the vacuum source 180 is powered through a DC powersource, such as by one or more batteries.

The vacuum sealing apparatus 130 also preferably comprises at least onecontamination filter (not shown) similar to the filter 68 describedpreviously. The contamination filter can be located within the inletportion 132, the chamber body 136, or the connector 138.

As described previously with respect to the vacuum sealing apparatus 30,the inlet portion 132 can also be configured to move between asubstantially horizontal position (shown in FIG. 11A) and asubstantially vertical position (shown in FIG. 11B).

Furthermore, movement of the inlet portion 132 may activate the vacuumsource 180 such that air is drawn through the inlet portion 132. In onearrangement, slightly pulling the inlet portion 132 along the directionof the body of the inlet portion 132 activates the vacuum source 180.For example, pulling the inlet portion 132 can trigger an actuator, suchas an electrical switch, within the vacuum source apparatus 130. Such anactuator can be advantageously located at a position proximate to thecoupling of the inlet portion 132 to the intermediate portion 134. Inyet other arrangements, movement of the inlet portion 132 from asubstantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical positionactivates the vacuum source 180. Likewise, movement of the inlet portion132 back to the horizontal position deactivates the vacuum source 180.

Although described with reference to particular arrangements, a widevariety of alternative devices or methods can be used to activate thevacuum source 180. For example, a sensor or a switch can be located nearthe end of the inlet portion 132. When a container is brought near to orin contact with the end of the inlet portion 132, the vacuum source 180begins operating. Likewise, when the container is removed from the inletportion 132, the vacuum source 180 ceases operation. In yet otherarrangements, the vacuum sealing apparatus 130 comprises a manual switchthat the user activates and deactivates to control the functioning ofthe vacuum source 180.

As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the vacuum sealing apparatus 130optionally comprises a light source 184 that provides illumination inthe area used for vacuum sealing. The light source 184 is preferablyconfigured such that contaminants, such as liquids, that accumulate inthe chamber body 136 do not interfere with the function of the lightsource 184.

Although the vacuum sealing apparatus 130 is described above withrespect to particular arrangements, a wide variety of alternativeconfigurations are contemplated. For example, the vacuum sealingapparatus 130 can be configured to stand alone in an upright position,such as on the top of a counter, instead of mounting underneath asurface. In yet other configurations, the vacuum sealing apparatus 130is portable.

In one arrangement, the method of using the vacuum sealing apparatus 130is similar to the above-disclosed methods of using the vacuum sealingapparatus 30.

With reference now to FIGS. 12 and 13, an embodiment of a vacuum sealingapparatus 230 is illustrated that is arranged and configured inaccordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention. Once again, to simplify the description, components will notbe redescribed in detail if they were described above. Rather, thecomponents in the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13 will be given areference numeral that retains the same last two digits as the referencenumeral used in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-11B, and the last two digitswill be preceded with a numeral “2.” Thus, the vacuum sealing apparatus230 generally corresponds to the vacuum sealing apparatus 30 and thevacuum sealing apparatus 130 with certain differences that will beilluminated in the following discussion.

As shown, the vacuum sealing apparatus 230 comprises an inlet portion232 and an intermediate portion 234. The illustrated intermediateportion 234 further comprises chamber body 236 and a connector 238. Thechamber body 236 preferably comprises a tubular body made of asemi-flexible material, such as a plastic or rubber.

The connector 238 is preferably adapted to couple to a vacuum sourceport 290. In particular, the illustrated vacuum source port 290comprises a wall port for an in-house vacuum system. Furthermore,coupling the connector 238 to the vacuum source port 290 advantageouslytriggers the operation of the in-house vacuum system by activating atleast one contact, such as an electrical switch, generally used inconventional in-house vacuum system wall ports.

Although described with reference to one arrangement, the vacuum sealingapparatus 230 can be used with a wide variety of vacuum sources, suchas, for example, household vacuum cleaners, portable vacuum systems,vacuum pumps, fans and the like. In yet other configurations, theconnector 238 can be customized to couple to various vacuum sources, ormultiple connectors or adapters can be used in place of, or incombination with, the illustrated connector 238.

With reference to FIG. 13, the illustrated vacuum sealing apparatus 230further comprises a filter 268. Similar to the filter 68 of the vacuumsealing apparatus 30, the filter 268 is preferably an inlinecontamination filter that substantially reduces or eliminates the flowof particles and/or liquid between the vacuum source and the vacuumsealing apparatus 230. Preferably, the filter 268 is removable so as topermit cleaning and/or replacement. Although the illustrated filter 268is disposed within the connector 238, it is to be understood that thefilter 268 can be disposed in any location within the vacuum sealingapparatus 230 that allows for the blocking of particles or liquids. Inyet other arrangements, the filter 268 can be located within the vacuumsource port 290.

In one arrangement, the method of using the vacuum sealing apparatus 230is similar to the above-disclosed method of using the vacuum sealingapparatus 30. The difference between the two methods is primarily at thebeginning of the vacuum sealing process. When using the vacuum sealingapparatus 230, the user first couples the connector 238 of the vacuumsealing apparatus 230 to the vacuum source port 290. In one arrangement,this coupling causes the vacuum source to begin operating. In otherarrangements, the user can manually control the operation of the vacuumsource. Either prior to or after the vacuum source begins operating, theuser positions the inlet portion 232 in a container, such as aresealable bag, to be vacuum sealed. The user then uses the vacuumsealing apparatus 230 to remove the air from the container in a mannersubstantially similar to the method of using the vacuum sealingapparatus 30. To deactivate the vacuum source, the user can decouple theconnector 238 from the vacuum source port 290 or use other availablemeans for deactivation, such as a switch located on the vacuum sealingapparatus 230.

With reference now to FIG. 14, an embodiment of a vacuum sealingapparatus 330 is illustrated that is arranged and configured inaccordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention. Once again, to simplify the description, components will notbe redescribed in detail if they were described above. Rather, thecomponents in the embodiments of FIG. 14 will be given a referencenumeral that retains the same last two digits as the reference numeralused in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13, and the last two digits will bepreceded with a numeral “3.” Thus, the vacuum sealing apparatus 330generally corresponds to the vacuum sealing apparatus 30, the vacuumsealing apparatus 130 and the vacuum sealing apparatus 230 with certaindifferences that will be illuminated in the following discussion.

As shown, the vacuum sealing apparatus 330 comprises an inlet portion332 and an intermediate portion 334. The illustrated intermediateportion 334 further comprises a chamber body 336 and a connector 338.The chamber body 336 preferably comprises a tubular body made of a rigidmaterial, such as for example, a plastic or light-weight metal.

Similar to the connector 238 of FIGS. 12 and 13, the connector 338 ispreferably adapted to couple to a vacuum source port 390, such as thewall port 390 of an in-house vacuum system. In other arrangements, theconnector 338 can be used with household vacuum cleaners, portablevacuum systems, vacuum pumps, fans and/or the like. In yet otherconfigurations, the connector 338 can be customized to couple to variousvacuum sources, or multiple connectors or adapters can be used in placeof, or in combination with, the illustrated connector 338.

With reference to FIG. 14, the illustrated vacuum sealing apparatus 330further comprises a filter 368. Similar to the filter 68 of the vacuumsealing apparatus 30, the filter 268 is preferably an inlinecontamination filter that substantially reduces or eliminates the flowof particles and/or liquid between the vacuum source and the vacuumsealing apparatus 330. Preferably, the filter 368 is removable so as topermit cleaning and/or replacement. Although the illustrated filter 368is disposed within the connector 338, it is to be understood that thefilter 368 can be disposed in any location within the vacuum sealingapparatus 330 that allows for the blocking of particles or liquids. Inyet other arrangements, the filter 368 can be located within the vacuumsource port 390.

In one arrangement, the method of using the vacuum sealing apparatus 330is similar to the above-disclosed method of using the vacuum sealingapparatus 30. First, the user attaches the vacuum sealing apparatus 330to the vacuum source port 390. When the inlet portion 332 is rotatedinto a substantially vertical position (as shown in FIG. 14), thein-house vacuum system begins drawing air through the inlet portion 332.The user then uses the vacuum sealing apparatus 330 to remove air from acontainer. To deactivate the vacuum source, the inlet portion 332 isrotated to a substantially horizontal orientation.

In another arrangements, attaching the vacuum sealing apparatus 330 tothe vacuum source port 390 causes the vacuum source to begin operating,or the user can manually control the operation of the vacuum source. Inyet another configuration, the vacuum sealing apparatus 330 can includea stop-cock valve, or the like, within the intermediate portion 334 thatregulates the flow of air through the vacuum sealing apparatus 330. Insuch a configuration, when the vacuum source is turned on, rotating theinlet portion 332 downward opens the valve such that air is drawn inthrough the inlet portion 332, and rotating the inlet portion 332 upwardcloses the valve to decrease and/or stop air flow through the vacuumsealing apparatus 330.

Although the present invention has been disclosed in the context ofcertain preferred embodiments, examples and variations, it will beunderstood by those skilled in the art that the present inventionextends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to otheralternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obviousmodifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number ofvariations of the invention have been shown and described in detail,other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, willbe readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon thisdisclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations orsubcombinations of the specific features and aspects of any of the manyembodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of theinvention. It should be understood that various features and aspects ofthe disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for oneanother in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention.Moreover, some variations that have been described with respect to oneembodiment and not another embodiment can be used with such otherembodiments. Many variations have been described herein andcross-application is intended where physically possible. Thus, it isintended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed shouldnot be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above,but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims thatfollow.

1. A device for facilitating vacuum sealing, said device comprising: anelongated air inlet nozzle, said nozzle having a tubular end configuredto be inserted into a resealable container, said nozzle furthercomprising a lumen extending therethrough; a hollow intermediate sectionhaving a first port and a second port, said first port of saidintermediate section configured to communicate with a vacuum source, andsaid second port of said intermediate section being in communicationwith said nozzle lumen; an actuator configured to activate said vacuumsource; and an inline contamination filter disposed in a locationbetween said tubular end of said nozzle and said first port of saidintermediate section, wherein said contamination filter is configured topermit air flow through said nozzle lumen and said intermediate section,and wherein said contamination filter is further configured tosubstantially impede contaminants from entering said vacuum sourcethrough said tubular end of said nozzle.
 2. The device of claim 1,wherein the vacuum source comprises a central in-house vacuum system. 3.The device of claim 1, wherein said contamination filter comprises ahydrophilic material.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein saidcontamination filter comprises a labyrinth of narrow passageways.
 5. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein said intermediate housing further comprises acollection chamber.
 6. The device of claim 5, wherein said contaminationfilter is located downstream of said collection chamber.
 7. The deviceof claim 1, wherein said nozzle is pivotably coupled to saidintermediate section.
 8. The device of claim 7, wherein said actuatorcomprises a switch configured to activate said vacuum source.
 9. Thedevice of claim 8, wherein said nozzle is configured to actuate saidswitch when said nozzle is positioned in a substantially downwarddirection.
 10. An apparatus for use in vacuum sealing, said apparatuscomprising: an intermediate portion having a first port and a secondport, said first port configured to communicate with a vacuum source; anelongated air inlet portion having a tubular end, a connector end and alumen extending therebetween, wherein said connector end of said airinlet portion is coupled to said intermediate portion such that saidlumen of said air inlet portion is in communication with said secondport; and an actuator configured to activate said vacuum source, saidactuator being located between said tubular end of said elongated airinlet portion and said first port of said intermediate portion, saidactuator being operably coupled to said elongated air inlet portion suchthat movement of said elongated air inlet portion in a first directionactuates said actuator.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10 further comprisinga contamination filter disposed in at least one of said intermediateportion and said elongated air inlet portion.
 12. The apparatus of claim10, wherein said vacuum source comprises a vacuum pump.
 13. Theapparatus of claim 10, wherein said vacuum source comprises a centralin-house vacuum system.
 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein saidactuator is configured to deactivate said vacuum source when saidelongated air inlet portion is moved in a second direction after beingmoved in said first direction, wherein said second direction is oppositesaid first direction.
 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein saidactuator comprises an electrical switch.
 16. The apparatus of claim 10,wherein said first movement is in a substantially downward direction.17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said first movement comprisesrotation of said elongated air inlet portion with respect to saidintermediate portion.
 18. A system for facilitating vacuum sealing, saidsystem comprising: an air inlet portion, said air inlet portion having atubular end configured for insertion into a handheld container, said airinlet portion further comprising a lumen extending therethrough; anactuator configured to activate a vacuum source, said actuator beingoperably connected to said air inlet portion such that movement of saidair inlet portion in a first direction actuates said actuator; and anintermediate section comprising: a first port configured to communicatewith said vacuum source; a second port in communication with said lumenof said inlet portion; a collection chamber disposed between said firstport and said second port; and a mounting plate configured to attachsaid intermediate section to a substantially planar surface.
 19. Thesystem of claim 18, wherein said actuator is configured to deactivatesaid vacuum source when said air inlet portion is moved is a seconddirection substantially opposite said first direction.
 20. The system ofclaim 18 further comprising said vacuum source.
 21. The system of claim20 further comprising an outer housing substantially surrounding saidvacuum source and said intermediate section.